The man who was sacked for using homophobic slurs against a co-star seven years ago will soon be making his big come back on Grey’s Anatomy.

Isaiah Washington took on the role of Preston Burke for the first three seasons of Grey’s Anatomy and is now set to return in a once-off appearance before his former on-screen lover Cristina Yang leaves in May.

Speaking about their relationship, screen writer Shonda Rhimes said in a statement:  “It’s important to me that Cristina’s journey unfolds exactly as it should. Burke is vital to that journey – he gives her story that full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang.”

She admits that his departure seven years ago was a very difficult time for her to write the show, even though “some amazing things did come out of it”.

We’re excited to see what Isaiah Washington’s return will bring for this medical drama!